From Russell To Kennedy

The “revolution” in the House of Representatives, like most modern revolutions (as advocated, not as practiced), is a revolution in (to use the modern argot) “consciousness.” But it is no less consequential for being that. On the contrary, as a matter of constitutional fact, all that ever stands between Congress and domination of the government is Congress’ lack of the will to dominate it.

Constitutionally, Presidents can veto bills. But as Mr. Ford well knows, Congress can bat vetoes back at Presidents. Presidents can nominate ambassadors, and the Senate can refuse to confirm his nominees. Presidents can nominate Supreme Court justices. But as Mr. Ford may learn to his sorrow (in the unlikely event that the ailing Justice William Douglas decides to resign before 1976) the Senate can refuse to confirm Supreme Court nominees. The crucial committee for Court appointments is Judiciary, more about which anon.

The “revolution” in the House of Representatives, like most modern revolutions (as advocated, not as practiced), is a revolution in (to use the modern argot) “consciousness.” But it is no less consequential for being that. On the contrary, as a matter of constitutional fact, all that ever stands between Congress and domination of the government is Congress’ lack of the will to dominate it.

Constitutionally, Presidents can veto bills. But as Mr. Ford well knows, Congress can bat vetoes back at Presidents. Presidents can nominate ambassadors, and the Senate can refuse to confirm his nominees. Presidents can nominate Supreme Court justices. But as Mr. Ford may learn to his sorrow (in the unlikely event that the ailing Justice William Douglas decides to resign before 1976) the Senate can refuse to confirm Supreme Court nominees. The crucial committee for Court appointments is Judiciary, more about which anon.